Bronzing and Temporary Tanning with Makeup Forever Face & Body

You have probably all seen me rave about Make Up For Ever Face and Body foundation here but I had to bring it up again so I could add how great this product is for bronzing and temporary tanning.

I always start by prepping the skin well making sure I have a really clean well moisturised base to work from before I start applying makeup.

Following the base application I like to sweep the tiniest drop of Face & Body in a gorgeous nutty, tan shade (no.12 is usually perfect) across the apples of the cheeks, bridge of the nose and across the forehead using a dual fibre brush. I really work the product in blending with a light circular motion and build the colour where needed to get a flawless bronzed glow. Remember to pay attention to ears and necks too!

I find the the sheer, slightly dewy finish of the Face & Body gives a more natural tanned look as apposed to many traditional powder based bronzers. When used with a light touch you can let freakles show through too, adding to the natural finish we want.

I also follow the same procedure for the body, buffing a darker shade of Face & Body than I used for the base into the skin. I concentrate the colour where the sun usually hits most such as the shoulders, chest, outer arms, ect and blend, blend, blend, the colour outward.

As the Make Up For Ever Face and Body is transfer and water resistant you don't have to worry about the colour disappearing or ruining clothing which is a huge bonus!

Let me know what tips you have for getting a summer glow by leaving a message in the comments section below.

Long Lasting Makeup

I mentioned on Thursday the importance of using makeup for longevity when working with brides and thought I would elaborate by sharing some tips on getting makeup to last.

Preparation is key
By prepping the skin correctly you can increase the life of your makeup application and keep your bride happy all day.

• Give moisturiser time to be absorbed into the skin so you have a good canvas to work from and your makeup wont slide off.


• Using a good primer will prep the skin for foundation and should increase the longevity of your makeup.


• An eye primer will not only give your eyeshadow more staying power and stop creasing but the shadow should appear brighter and true to the colour in the pot as well.

Setting the makeup
Setting the makeup with a good translucent powder that doesn't change the texture or colour of your foundation is probably the most important step to extent the life of your makeup application.

When applying foundation and powder don't cake makeup on or think you need more coverage because the makeup has to last. A light application will last longer and look more fresh throughout the day. Using a powder puff with some loose translucent powder, press and roll the puff to set the makeup and reduce shine paying attention to the t-zone. Dust off any excess with a powder brush.

Long lasting lip colour
There are several techniques for getting the most out of your lip colour so here are a few you can try.

• Use a clear lip liner to create a barrier to stop lip colour from bleeding.


• Try filling in the lips with a matching lip pencil before applying lipstick to extend the wear.


• Apply lipstick, blot and reapply to give the lip colour more staying power.


• Use a lip stain to colour the lips and add a coat of lip gloss over the top to add shine.

Waterproofing
You don't want a teary moment to ruin the makeup for the rest of the day so make sure the products you use around the eyes are not going to budge with a few tears. Carry a good waterproof mascara and switch kohl pencil for gel, cream and waterproof liquid liners.

I hope you found these tips useful as they not only apply to bridal makeup but any makeup job that requires the makeup to last for long periods of time.

If you have any secrets for getting makeup to stay put share them with us in the comments section.

Makeup For Brides

I love doing makeup for brides and as it is often referred to as many artists ‘bread and butter’ I thought I would give you some points to think about if you are interested in getting into this area of makeup.

Use products for longevity – The makeup needs to go from day to night and continue to look flawless for hours so be sure to use products that are going to last.

Give basic skin care advice – Lots of people don’t know the importance of good skin care so be prepared to reiterate that looking after their skin in the run up to the big day will help them achieve the glowing radiant look just about every bride is looking for. If you have a good canvas to work from your job will be much easier on the wedding day too.

Don’t forget the rest of the body – Remember pictures will be taken by guests from every angel so check the makeup from all angles and be sure to conceal any blemishes on the chest or back if the dress shows some skin. Some body lotion and hand cream will bring the skin to life and make the bride feel even more pampered on the day.

Be confident – You don’t want to be pushy but having a confidence about you will put your clients at ease and give them confidence in you and your skills making them more open to your ideas and opinions. Your bride will also be more relaxed if you look like you know what you’re doing.

The trial – The consultation before the wedding is really important so make sure you never skip the trial. Meeting the bride before the day gives you both a chance to decide on the look so the wedding day runs smoothly and most importantly you can be sure that none of the products you use cause a reaction. If any irritation occurs it will have time to calm down.

Keep a book of tears – It is good to have a small book of makeup looks that you can go through with those brides that don’t have any pictures for you to use as a starting point. One bride’s idea of a natural look can be extremely different to the next so it is important to make sure you are both on the same page from the start.

Touch up kits – If a touch up kit is not included in the makeup package you should talk the bride through products that can be purchased to maintain their look, such as a powder compact for shine control.

You need to be good at gentle persuasion – You should never be pushy when working with private clients such as brides and always remember that at the end of the day they are paying you to give them the look they want. The bride owns their look and should always feel comfortable in their own skin. Never try to force a look you think is best on someone but a good artist should try to steer them into making the right choices and to try new things.

Don’t cheapen your skills – Google bridal makeup artists in your area, set your prices in line with those in your market and stick to them.

This is probably the most important day of your brides life so its your job to be a calming influence and get the job done to the best of your ability and with as little fuss as possible. Having their make done on the big day should be a fun relaxing experience.

Leave your thoughts on bridal makeup and dealing with brides in the comments section!